Allentown, PA vs York, PA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. York is 23.9% cheaper than Allentown. With a cost index of 71 vs 89, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from York to Allentown should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Allentown is $1,269/month compared to $958/month in York — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: York is more affordable at $103,100 median vs $188,900.

Median household income in Allentown is $53,403 compared to $47,115 in York (+13.3%). The higher salaries in Allentown partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Allentown spend roughly 28.5% of their income on rent, more than the 24.4% in York.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (53.1°F vs 52.4°F). Allentown receives more rainfall at 47.4" per year compared to 42.1" in York.